Every year, the outstanding Asian talents in film, television and culture are honored at the Unforgettable Awards which is presented by GoldenTV and Character Media.
This year, the much-looked-forward-to event was held at the Fairmont Century Plaza hotel.
The honorees for 2026 included filmmaker Chloe Zhao (“Hamnet,” “Eternals,” “Nomadland”), Bowen Yang (“The Wedding Banquet”), KPop Demon Hunters (Arden Cho, Ji-young Yoo), Lawrence Shou (“Rosemead”), Lloyd Lee Choi (“Lucky Lu”), Te Ao o Hinepehinga (“Chief of War”), Leenda Dong (Digital influencer) and Chef Jet Tila (Culinary Excellence in Media).
We were able to interview some of the Filipino and Asian talents who talked about the importance of representation in Hollywood.
Liza Soberano (“Forgotten Island”)
How important is representation in Hollywood and being here tonight at the Unforgettable Awards?
Oh for me, representation is very important, especially in the entertainment industry because when I was a little girl, when I would see people like me make it big in Hollywood or be part of these incredible big films, and I’d find out that they were Filipino, it inspired me to have bigger dreams because I feel like when you’re a child and you start dreaming, it is good.
At first, I wanted to have like a chocolate factory because of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” But then when I saw Vanessa Hudgens in “High School Musical,” that’s when my eyes opened up to the possibilities and my dreams started expanding, and I began dreaming bigger. So, it’s very important to see people who represent your culture, your heritage, and allow you to dream bigger.
Dante Basco (“The Fabulous Filipino Brothers”) and wife Alice Rehemutula
Talk about how important representation is in Hollywood.
It’s very important. Before I came around, I met a lot of new Filipinos coming to the industry, saying that my career was one of the moments that they thought they could exist in Hollywood, even non-Filipinos. Jon M Chu, the director, said seeing Rufio (his character in the Steven Spielberg 1991 movie “Hook” with Robin Williams and Dustin Hoffman) on screen was the first feeling he felt that he could belong in Hollywood. And so, I think that goes a long way. It’s not something I thought about as a child coming into the industry, but now as a father myself, I’m very proud of the work I’ve done in the past and some of the doors I helped open for the next generation.
You are one of the frontrunners among the Filipino talents who started in Hollywood. How was it for you to break barriers?
I didn’t even know that I was breaking barriers, but it was great. I was young and naive. I didn’t know that it was possible. And so, I feel fortunate for the roles I got to play that were written as Filipinos and the ones that were not written as Filipino, and they were just Filipino to me. Also, the times I got to represent other cultures, whether it be Latinos or other Asian cultures, I try to do it with dignity and pride. And also, my wife, she’s Uyghur. And so, she is also representing, she’s one of the first Uyghur actresses in Hollywood. (The Uyghurs are a Turkic ethnic group originating from and culturally affiliated with the general region of Central Asia and East Asia. They are one of China’s 55 officially recognized ethnic minorities.)
Alice: That’s right. And I recently did a film representing our culture called “Keep Her Quiet” and directed by Franz Böhm, produced by a producer who produced “All Quiet on the Western Front.” It’s a heavy subject. It’s a political thriller. It’s about a true story. It’s coming up in September. And so, representation continues.
How do you plan to raise your kids? Do you also want them to join Hollywood?
That’s a good question. He already shot his first ad for Carter’s. He is already a baby apparel model. So, he has an agent. But we’ll let him decide as he gets older. It’s a family business. Of course, my whole family is in industry. My wife is in the industry. It’s what we do, both work in front of and behind the camera. And if he wants to join us, he’s welcome too. And if he wants to go be a lawyer or something, I’ll be like, good luck.
Alice: I don’t know, I mean, it’s up to him again. I don’t want to force him. He can do whatever he wants. But again, we’re in business. Dante’s family and myself, we’re all in business.
Vincent Rodriguez III (“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” “With Love”) and his general manager Don Mike Mendoza
Why is representation important in Hollywood?
Representation is so important, especially for the AAPI community, because we’re actually in a surge right now where we’re seeing more representation, more stories, and with things going on in the government and the world right now, it’s a little harder because our morale is down. But this is the time to flourish and to take advantage of the Year of the Horse and the year of the Fire Horse.
So, I feel like tonight is a celebration and a gallop into the new year. So, I’m excited to celebrate all the amazing honorees tonight. And I’m a little overwhelmed actually because I haven’t been here in a few years and it always touches my heart to see so much talent and so much energy in one place seeing fellow AAPI community members because it’s not something I encounter too often, so it’s amazing to be here.
How about you Don, why do you think representation is important in Hollywood?
It’s very important because people like me who grew up do not see myself on TV and movies and only see very specific people. The first person I remember was Paolo Montalban. And so, through him, I got to start noticing. But it wasn’t until now and meeting Vinnie that to see all of our not just Filipino, but AAPI brothers and sisters out there. It’s so important because hopefully there won’t be any more kids who watch TV and think, oh, I’m not going to see myself. And now they can dream ahead and say, I’m going to do that.
So, what’s next for you, Vince?
Right now, I’m building my production company, VRIII Productions. And so, we have some TV and film projects as well as live shows. I have a solo show I brought to Manila last year and next will go to Hawaii, D.C., Pittsburgh, and Las Vegas.
I’m also speaking and teaching now. I speak on behalf of neurodivergent artists, and I help those artists use neuronopathic techniques to help them unlock their artistry, but also to manage their mental health.
And so, I’ve been really excited about giving back during this time when the acting business is in a bit of a lull. And so, I thought I’d answer my call as someone who can be of service using all the credits and the experiences I’ve had on TV, film, Broadway, and in animation to give back.
J.R. De Guzman (singer-comedian)
Why do you think it is very important to have representation here in Hollywood?
It is really important because a lot of times, we’re the ones both behind the camera and in front of the camera who are trying to get our stories out there. Otherwise, maybe other people wouldn’t tell our stories. So, it’s just good to get the Filipino story out.
It must be hard for you to think of new materials every night. Where do you get your materials?
Oh, it’s everywhere, from my parents, my family, my friends, and the news. There’s always something to laugh about.
Miranda Kwok (“The Cleaning Lady”)
Talk about how important representation is in Hollywood.
It is so important to see ourselves represented in meaningful stories to feel like we belong and that our stories matter. I’m so excited to constantly see all these new projects and so many projects being honored. Because I think we’re digging in so much deeper than we ever have with characters. And again, it’s so important to see the struggles of these characters, to see people get through their challenges.
There are so many projects that are so defining for people. And when we don’t see ourselves, then we feel like we don’t count. That our stories don’t matter, that we can be just in the shadows. So, I think seeing ourselves uplifted and embraced and seeing all the multiple layers of who we are and can be is so incredible for our community.
“The Cleaning Lady” gave breaks to a lot of Filipinos and Filipino Americans. Are you coming up with a new show?
I am developing two shows with Warner Brothers, so hopefully going to go out with them soon. One was inspired by my own family, so amazing people in my family, characters in my family. My grandma has an amazing story. My aunt has an amazing story. So, just really hoping to again show this amazing history that we have stories that we’ve never seen before that can really touch a lot of people, because again, when you see and relate to other people’s struggles, then you don’t feel so alone in your own struggles.
How significant is having the Unforgettable Awards?
I was just saying that it’s extraordinary because we get to celebrate our community, we get to recognize people who are making changes, who are breaking the glass ceiling, and putting these important stories on screen. So, it is such an important gala. I love being here. I love being here with my community to celebrate with each other.
Ji-young Yoo (Honoree, “KPop Demon Hunters”)
Talk about how important representation is in Hollywood.
I think representation is just an honest reflection of the world we live in. So rather than being important, I would just say that it’s honest and reflects our world.
Is this your first time here at the Unforgettable Awards, and why do you think this event is important?
I’ve actually been here three years in a row now, which has been really lovely. It’s important because communities need to come together, be around one another, and celebrate each other. So, it’s just going to be a really fun night of the Asian American community having some fun.
How difficult was your journey coming to Hollywood and being where you are right now?
I would say pursuing a career in the arts is always challenging, but I’ve been very lucky that my journey has been with has been done with some relative ease. I’ve been supported by a lot of people in the Asian American community and championed by a lot of Asian women. So, I’ve been luckier than most, and I think it’s a testament to the progress we’ve made.
Jet Tila (Honoree, Chef)
Can you tell me how important representation is in Hollywood?
There’s nothing more important. The only thing that might be equally important as representation is just everybody participating in Asian food. Because it’s not political, it’s not drama. And everyone loves Asian food. So, it’s an opportunity for us to teach our culture to them.
Do you see other Asian chefs also breaking into Hollywood?
I want many of them too, but I love that food is such a pop culture phenomenon in my generation. And before it is like Ming Tsai and Roy Choi. But now if you look at the James Beard list, the best list. We have so many Asian young chefs who are breaking in. So, I think we are a permanent fixture in cuisine in America now.
One of the James Beard winners is Filipino chef Lord Maynard Llera.
We need more chefs like Lord Maynard, who I used to work with here in LA. Lord Maynard is the perfect example of Asian representation. He wins a James Beard for Filipino cuisine that’s underrepresented. I couldn’t be proud of him.
What do you think is the one main misconception about Asian food?
That’s a good one. The negative misconception is everyone thinks it’s super healthy, but eat balanced, eat vegetables, right? We make delicious food but eat in balance. Another misconception is that it’s all the same. Filipino food is not Thai. It’s not Lao. So, know the differences and explore those cultures.
Chris Pang (“Crazy Rich Asians”)
Why is representation so important in Hollywood?
Representation is important in Hollywood because Hollywood informs the rest of the world. I feel like we get a lot of cultural cues and we learn a lot from Hollywood. And so, the way that we’re represented in movies matters. It’s like when I was a kid, I didn’t see Asian people being represented positively too much. And I think that’s why it’s so important for me to choose selectively what I’m a part of and what I support.
Did you see yourself always as an actor, even as a young kid?
I grew up in Melbourne in Australia, which is a little city in the corner of Australia, a country surrounded by ocean that is disconnected from everything. It didn’t feel like a realistic dream for me to be an actor. And so not very much. Not so. I think I was going to be an artist.
When did you get the acting bug?
My mum took me to acting classes one day, and it was the first time that I actually tried and applied myself properly. I’m quite lazy in other areas of my life. And so, when I realized, hey, this is something that I really enjoy doing and I’m not bad at it, that’s when I was like, I should give it a shot.
What’s next for you?
I have a film out right now in cinemas called “Send Help.” It’s a Sam Raimi film with Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien, and it is fantastic. You’ve got to see it in a cinema. It’s one of the best films you will see this year. It’s really fun. And then I have a series coming out later this year that will be out on Hulu called “The Season,” which is about the boating season in Hong Kong. And it’s about rich people doing rich people things and the duality of who they appear to be and who they really are, with some thriller intrigue thrown in.
Asif Ali (“Deli Boys”)
Why is it so important to have representation in Hollywood?
Representation is so important because everybody deserves a chance to have their story told and for their opportunity to be creative and showcase all the nitty-gritty parts of their community. That’s why events like this are so great because they gather people not only in North America, but also on a, on a global scale. There are so many international artists who are here that I get excited about seeing and hearing, and I leave this event every year motivated to think bigger. And there are so many people out there making really incredible projects.
Have you ever dreamt of being here in Hollywood?
Not really. I think for me, I just wanted to perform. I just wanted to make things that led me to. I wasn’t really concerned about that. I just want to be able to make art in any sort of capacity, and it would be a dream to be able to do that as a primary source of income. So, for me, this is like a real blessing to look back and be like, wow, you did it, and I’m still doing it. So, it’s very exciting to be creative in Hollywood.
When did you discover you had this inner actor within you?
I started doing stand-up. So, comedy was my thing. So, I got into comedy. I discovered stand-up when I was in the sixth or seventh grade, and then I started doing open mics and stuff like that. And to me, the joy was being obsessed with the process. I really enjoy the process of creating. And so, to me, slowly putting things together and making things and watching things get built and having a piece of art or work that you can be proud of that didn’t exist, but it came out of your head. That is so exciting to me. I’m just chasing that feeling constantly.
When did you discover that you were funny?
I don’t know if I had a specific discovery when I was funny, but I’ve always been very interested in funny people. When I was growing up, I had a lot of brothers who were older than me and their friends and stuff, and even my friends. I would always be very fascinated by funny people. So, when I figured out that I could do that, I got so into it, but I just thought it was like a thing you did around the neighborhood. You just talk to your friends or whatever. But then, when I discovered that, oh, there’s like an art to it, you can have a career in it with writing, performing, acting and all that. I’m living the dream.
So, what’s up for you soon?
Now, what I have coming up is season two of “Deli Boys” on Hulu. And I’m writing a movie and a TV show that I’m excited about. And then I go on tour doing stand-up. I will be here for the Netflix Festival on May 8th. So come out to that. But yeah, just living life.
Kieu Chinh (“The Joy Luck Club”)
Why is representation so important in Hollywood?
It is very important nowadays. The Asians are getting more and more, and we all must get together to make a strong community.
You are one of the frontrunners in Hollywood. How was it breaking barriers in Hollywood?
Oh, yes. One of my very first Asian movies in Hollywood was “The Joy Luck Club,” and it paved the way. And after that, so many Asian movies followed. Now, there’s a lot of change already. The more we get together, the stronger we are. And the more Asian stories can be told.
Jack Champion and Trinity Jo-Li Bliss (“Avatar: Fire and Ash”)
How important was it for you to represent your culture here in Hollywood?
Trinity: It feels really important to represent. I know my mom has told me many times, like, I wish that I wasn’t Chinese, and the way that I am and the way that I look, because maybe it would get me better opportunities. And I always just tell her not to feel that way because I feel really proud of the story that’s on my face because of all my ancestors and family, and to represent us and to represent all the young girls out there, but also the people who came before me.
And I know that I have always been very inspired by trailblazers like Michelle Yeoh and all of these other people that have been paving the way, but also just making space for all of us. I think all of these communities should be celebrated, and our stories represent it because everybody deserves to feel seen on screen.
What was the most difficult part about starting in Hollywood?
Jack: It’s just hard to keep consistent. But I think if you keep on going, chasing your goals, trying to get auditions, that’s the name of the game. Also watching movies is a big part of it. Always just keep on your toes and go forward, no matter what, even if you get a lot of no’s, which in our industry you do.
Trinity: Leaving school early to go drive into L.A. for auditions and doing that so many times a week, even though for at least a year, I didn’t even get anything and just still love it so much and going for it. And my mom and I are just hopping in the car and getting in trouble with my school, my classmates, and her getting in trouble at work. But because she was so supportive and knew that I loved it so much and for us to keep going, it’s like Jack was saying, you just keep going and doing what you love, and the consistency of it and following your heart.
Lewis Tan (“Mortal Kombat II”)
Talk about why representation is important in Hollywood.
It’s not just important in Hollywood. It’s important everywhere. Specifically for these stories to be told. And film is such a beautiful medium where you could really learn, create empathy, and live in someone else’s shoes for a very quick period of time. So, it’s not just about representation, it’s about getting these stories out there so we can feel more united as a whole, as a human race. I think not only will you get great stories, but you’ll learn a lot about different cultures and different people’s perspectives.
When did you dream of becoming an actor? Was it always on your wish list or did it just happen by accident?
I love stories, I love films, I grew up watching movies, I’m obsessed with movies, and I would not do anything else. Even if it was free. I would just find another way to make money, and I would still be doing this. I love this job. I feel very blessed.
What’s next for you?
I go to SWSX Film & TV Festival next week for a movie I did with Vince Vaughn and Eiza Gonzalez called “Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice,” and then I have “Mortal Kombat 2” coming out on May 8th. Go see it on IMAX.
Jolene Purdy (“The White Lotus”)
How important is representation in Hollywood?
It’s so important. I feel like I grew up not seeing anyone who looked like me being mixed Asian, a plus size, and a woman. Amy Hill was the only person that I saw. And now it’s so beautiful how colorful the screen is these days.
Can you tell us how significant it is for you to be part of a hit show like “The White Lotus”?
It was a little bit of a gamechanger to spend an entire pandemic with Molly Shannon and Jennifer Coolidge. Just running amok in the Four Seasons is incredible.
We didn’t know if it was going to be an amazing show or if it was going to be kind of wacky and weird. I think it blended both of those. But Mike White, the director, writer, and creator, is a genius. You don’t really know the method behind what he’s doing, but you know that he’s brilliant. The entire cast was incredible.
I saved Jennifer Coolidge from drowning in the ocean once. The staff at the Four Seasons were so welcoming. When I work in Hawaii, I like to have that kind of food on set at Craft Services because it just feels like home to me. And it’s so lovely.
John Dela Cruz (aka Nurse John, comedian)
Is this your first time being at the Unforgettable Awards show?
This is my very first time as a pre-show host, but I’ve been here last year too, as a guest. I will also be presenting tonight.
Can you talk about your Filipino roots?
I’m 100% Filipino. I grew up in the Philippines, in Malolos, Bulacan. I grew up with my Lolo and Lola. I was raised by a single mother, and I moved here in the U.S. when I was 17.
When was the first time you found out you were funny?
The first time I found out I was funniest was when I was seven, and I told my Lolo and Lola a joke, and they laughed. And I told them, I want to be a comedian. But they’re like, no, you’re going to be a nurse first, and then you can be a comedian after.
And you have a role as a nurse?
Yes, I am a registered nurse. I was a registered nurse in Canada, and I was working in the emergency department and medical-surgical department, and I was also teaching in the university.
But how did the nursing career blend into the Hollywood career?
I think it was during COVID when I started working as a nurse, and it was really tough for me to start my career in nursing. In the end, TikTok became more famous, and social media was getting bigger. And so, a video of mine just resurfaced on social media, and it gathered millions of views, and from there, everything just went crazy, I would say.
Where did you get your funny bones?
I think I got my funny bones growing up from my Lolo. He’s always been very quirky, and he always makes jokes and he makes everybody laugh. And just being with him every single day because he used to work as Sampaloc boy, we call him. He picked Sampaloc and he sold Sampaloc in the market. And he would mix a lot of jokes when we are picking Sampaloc. And I think that’s where I got my funny bones.
Janine Pastores and Josh Jackson (Creators of Tubby Nugget)
What was the inspiration for Tubby Nugget?
He was actually a cartoon that my husband used to doodle for me back when we first started dating in 2016. And now he makes everybody say,
Josh is the full-time artist, and I am the full-time voice and writer behind Tubby. And my sister is actually inside the Tubby costume right now. She will hate me for exposing that. And our plush toy is already being made.
We’ve been making plush toys for about seven years now. Yeah, we’ve been doing tubby for seven years. Our second book just came out, and now Tubby is just hovering behind me on the red carpet, which is fantastic.
So, what made you bring it to the Unforgettable Awards?
I think that because Tubby is the child between Josh and me, he is a representation of both our cultures and our love. And so, we felt like it was very appropriate for the theme tonight, which is passion and representation. Tubby is obviously a very passionate and wholesome character, and we want to make sure that that’s the kind of message that we’re spreading when we’re making media, especially as AAPI creators.
Can I ask both of you about your heritage?
Yes. Of course. I am Filipino, Thai and Chinese. And my husband is Chinese, American.
Both my parents are from the Philippines. My dad was born in Thailand, and they met in the Philippines when he moved back over there. So that’s part of my origins. And Tubby’s favorite snack in our comics is actually an ube cupcake. And it’s the first part of my Filipino culture that he gets to engage with. And so, we try to include a lot of little pieces of our cultural background in Tubby’s origins.
Do you plan to bring him also to the Philippines?
We would love that. We do have a pretty big fan base in the Philippines, and I love my Filipino family. So, it would be very exciting to be able to bring Tubby over there.
